IS THAT SPRING I SEE?

 

Spring is on its way! I spotted this daffodil beginning to open yesterday in my garden. If it seems early, it is! My plants are all confused by the gorgeous weather we have had this Spring. My ground cover is coming in luscious and green and in all corners of my garden little buds are sprouting. I am convinced that spring will be here, soon!

With spring approaching, I feel the need to start my seedlings indoors. I do this to extend the growing seasons of my plants, flowers and vegetables. Seeds started indoors require the same basic conditions as those started outside. Give your seedlings daily attention for success. 

Seedling Tips

Earth friendly idea from Mr. Brown Thumb:
Start seedlings in used toilet paper rolls.

SOIL:

Use clean, fresh and healthy soil.

Make sure the soil is moist everyday.

POTS:

Use clean containers, preferably with good drainage.

What container you chose depends on what you are growing.

If plants outgrow containers, transplant (carefully) to larger containers.

Earth friendly pot alternatives: egg cartons, newspaper or empty toilet paper rolls.

Replant seedlings and earth friendly containers into the ground.

SOWING THE SEEDS

Thoroughly moisten the seeds.

Follow directions on the seed packets.

Replant most plants outside in 4-6 weeks, usually early May.

Wait until the plant has at least two healthy leaves.

LIGHT:

Place your seeds in a sunny window.

Adequate light is necessary.

If your seeds don't receive enough natural light, use supplemental lights.

Don't let your seeds get cold.

WATER:

Wrap seeds in plastic wrap to add moisture.

Remove plastic as the seeds sprout.

Use a spray bottle to spritz plants.

Keep your seeds moist, but not soaked.

Too much water can destroy your plant.

Give the seedlings weak fertilizer during the last week indoors.

TIPS:

Everyday run a hand over your seedlings to toughen them up.

A week before planting bring your seedlings outside for a few hours every day. 

When outside, place seedlings in a shaded, weather-protected area.

Expose them to a little more sun and wind each day.

PLANTING:

Water the ground and the seedlings thoroughly. 

Dig a hole about twice the size of the root. 

Place the seedlings in gently and covering them with soil.

Never disturb the roots during planting or transplanting. 

Leave 1/4" of soil pressed firmly around the roots. 

Put a small depression around the plant stem to help trap moisture. 

Water daily or according to seed packet instructions.

Use recycled newspaper to start seedlings.

Happy Gardening!

- Stacey Olson

Stacey Olson is a Featured Contributor